Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco proudly presents the country’s 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA) trophies during the Philippine Dive Experience in Anilao, Mabini, Batangas. The Philippines celebrated a remarkable achievement, winning four prestigious titles: World’s Leading Dive Destination 2024 for the sixth consecutive year, World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination for Boracay, World’s Leading City Destination for Manila, and, for the first time, World’s Leading Tourist Board for the DOT.
The Philippines continues to solidify its reputation as a global tourism powerhouse, clinching four significant honors at the prestigious 2024 World Travel Awards (WTA) Grand Final Gala Ceremony held on November 24 in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal.
Among the standout achievements, the country was crowned World’s Leading Dive Destination for the sixth consecutive year, further cementing its status as a diver’s paradise. Manila also retained its title as the World’s Leading City Destination. At the same time, Boracay was hailed as the World’s Leading Luxury Island Destination, celebrating its iconic white-sand beaches and upscale offerings.
Adding to these accolades, the Department of Tourism (DOT) earned its first-ever recognition as the World’s Leading Tourist Board. This milestone reflects its commitment to showcasing the Philippines as a premier travel destination.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed deep pride in these achievements, crediting the collective efforts of stakeholders and the government’s strategic vision.
“We are filled with immense pride and gratitude as the Philippines continues to capture the hearts of travelers worldwide. These recognitions reaffirm the Department of Tourism’s steadfast commitment to sustainability and inclusivity,” Frasco said.
She also acknowledged President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s leadership, whose vision has anchored the DOT’s mission to position the Philippines as a top-tier tourism destination in Asia.
Sustainable tourism
Under the Marcos administration, the DOT has emphasized sustainable tourism through its National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023–2028. The plan prioritizes infrastructure improvements, accessibility, and digital innovation to enhance the travel experience.
Key initiatives include:
- Infrastructure Development: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Department of Transportation (DOTr) are upgrading tourism roads, airports, and seaports in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOTr).
- Digital Connectivity: Partnering with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the DOT has enhanced digital platforms like the upgraded Travel PH App.
- Visitor Support: The launch of Tourist Assistance Call Centers and the creation of Tourist Rest Areas in strategic locations nationwide.
- Visa Reforms: Programs like the Cruise Visa Waiver streamline travel for international visitors.
To ensure tourism benefits all regions, the DOT has diversified its portfolio, highlighting gastronomy, health and wellness, Halal-friendly travel, heritage, culture, and sports like golf and surfing. The Philippine Experience Program: Heritage, Culture, and Arts Caravan, the Tourism Champions Challenge for local government units, and the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours in Metro Manila enhance accessibility and visitor engagement.
Building on regional success
The Philippines’ latest global awards build on its triumphs at the WTA’s Asia & Oceania Gala Ceremony in September 2024, where it hosted and swept eight regional titles. These included:
- Asia’s Leading Dive Destination
- Asia’s Leading Beach Destination
- Asia’s Leading Island Destination
- Asia’s Leading Luxury Island Destination (Boracay)
- Asia’s Leading Wedding Destination (Cebu)
- Asia’s Leading Tourist Attraction (Intramuros)
The country also received Asia’s Leading Marketing Campaign 2024 award for its Love the Philippines campaign, while Secretary Frasco was honored for her Transformational Leadership in Tourism.
Global excellence
“These awards reflect the powerful synergy between public and private sectors, as well as the unwavering support of Filipinos worldwide,” Frasco added.
“Together, let us continue to invite the world to experience all that there is to love about the Philippines.”
Since its establishment in 1993, the World Travel Awards has been recognized as the ultimate hallmark of excellence in travel and tourism. With these consistent accolades, the Philippines continues to rise as a global destination, offering unparalleled experiences for travelers.
For more information about the Philippines’ award-winning destinations, visit thephilippines.online.